Anton J. Hainrihar

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Anton J. Hainrihar, Chief Watertender, U.S. Coast Guard, for conspicuous gallantry while serving aboard the USCGC CAMPBELL (WMEC-909) during and following the sinking of an enemy submarine by that vessel on 22 February 1943. When the engine room flooded as a result of the attack upon the hostile vessel, Chief Watertender Hainrihar, by his calm direction of necessary operations in the fire room, set an inspiring example to the other members of the crew and helped to sustain morale throughout the duration of the emergency. His tireless devotion to duty, maintained from 8 to 12 hours a day with the vessel in a precarious position was in keeping with the highest tradition of the U.S. Naval Service.